PURULENT KERATITIS

 Purulent keratitis is a type of infectious keratitis, which is an inflammation of the cornea caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. It is characterized by the presence of pus, which is a thick, yellow or greenish fluid that contains white blood cells and microorganisms. Purulent keratitis is a serious condition that can cause significant damage to the cornea, leading to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly and effectively.

Symptoms of Purulent Keratitis

  • Severe pain, redness and light sensitivity in the affected eye
  • Blurred vision or visual distortion
  • Excessive tearing or discharge from the eye
  • The feeling of something in the eye
  • Swelling or cloudiness of the cornea
  • Pus formation on the eye surface or in the cornea

Causes of Purulent Keratitis

  • Bacterial infections such as staphylococcus aureus, streptococcus pneumoniae, haemophilus influenzae, and pseudomonas aeruginosa are the most common cause of purulent keratitis
  • Fungal infections are less common, but can also cause purulent keratitis.
  • Trauma or injury to the eye can also lead to the development of purulent keratitis.
  • contact lens use, specially prolonged use or improper care.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Purulent keratitis is typically diagnosed based on the clinical symptoms and the presence of pus in the cornea. A sample of the discharge or tissue from the cornea may be taken for culture and sensitivity testing to identify the specific cause of the infection.

Treatment of purulent keratitis usually involves the use of topical antibiotics or antifungal medications to eliminate the infection. In some cases, oral antibiotics or antifungal medications may also be prescribed.

To prevent the spread of infection, the eye will be patched with a bandage contact lens to protect the infected area and to help with the administration of the medication.

In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the infected tissue and to repair the damage to the cornea. In some cases, a corneal transplant may be necessary to restore vision and repair the damage to the cornea.

Prevention and Management

  • Avoiding eye trauma, like rubbing the eyes or exposing them to harsh chemicals
  • Washing your hands frequently, especially before touching your eyes
  • Not sharing personal items such as towels, contact lenses or makeup
  • Following proper contact lens care and replacement schedule
  • Seeking medical attention immediately if you experience any symptoms of keratitis, specially if experiencing eye pain or vision changes

Purulent keratitis can be a serious and sight-threatening condition if not treated promptly and effectively. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of purulent keratitis and to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms. With proper treatment, most cases of purulent keratitis can be successfully managed and vision loss can be prevented.

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